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Ginkgoforce > Raynaud's Syndrome
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Raynaud’s Syndrome
This
condition affects more women than men, and can occur quite early on in
life. It causes the blood supply to the hands and feet (and sometimes
other areas such as the nose) to be interrupted, upon which those areas
turn white then blue as the oxygen supply runs out, and then red as the
blood supply is finally resumed. During the white and blue stage, cold
and numbness are the primary features, but the return of feeling can be
exquisitely painful.
The main cause appears to be
oversensitive blood vessels that contract too fiercely when exposed to
a drop in temperature, preventing blood from reaching the far-flung
regions of hands and feet. It is extremely important therefore to avoid
sudden temperature changes, and to make every effort to dress warmly
enough.
Don'ts
- Smoking will worsen this condition, as it affects the blood flow through the smaller blood vessels.
- Stress has a similarly adverse effect on blood flow.
Do's
- Check your general health and blood pressure
with your doctor, as low blood pressure (below 120/75) can be a
contributory factor. It is also a known side effect of some drugs such
as beta-blockers.
- Exercise regularly (even if only gentle) as this will improve blood flow around the body and boost low blood pressure.
- Eat
warming foods in cold weather, adding plenty of stimulating spices such
as ginger and pepper. Fish oils and garlic have been used to aid the
circulation, and can both be used in the diet and taken as supplements.
- Nutrients that support the nervous system, such as vitamin B and magnesium, may be helpful supplements.
Further information is available from www.raynauds.org.uk or on 01270 872776.
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